Fits to a T

Rasheed offers, “I don’t want to go to the All-Star Game. My time with family is more valuable than being at some damn All-Star Game. I said many years ago, ‘No, I don’t want y’all to vote for me.’ ’’

Shaking her head in disagreement, Fatima responds, “I’ve got to be a devil’s advocate because I think it’s a great thing to show your children. For them, it’s a big deal. Don’t cheat them.’’

Rasheed claims the kids will have more fun throughout a championship series than during a hectic, over-scheduled All-Star weekend. Fatima doesn’t buy it, so Rasheed keeps trying to convince her.

“I don’t care about the All-Star Game,’’ he says. “I don’t care about the Hall of Fame. I didn’t come into the league for that. I came to win championships. By championships, you’re eternal. You can play 15 All-Star Games, but if you don’t win a championship, what do those 15 All-Star Games mean?’’

Fatima answers with a question of her own, “Wouldn’t it be better to get something rather than nothing?’’

A crazed look flashes across Rasheed’s face. He cannot believe what he’s hearing.

“That’s going to be my something,’’ says Rasheed. “Isn’t a championship a grander prize? When you’re at the carnival, do you want the little stuffed teddy bear or do you want the big stuffed teddy bear? You can’t trade All-Star Games for a championship ring.’’

Once again, Fatima realizes she cannot win. She smiles and says to Rasheed, “I can see your mind is already set.’’

Shira Springer can be reached at springer@globe.com.